About the J.N. Heredia Counselling Centre
The Sophia-J.N. Heredia Centre for Counseling provides free, confidential counselling services to all students at Sophia College (Autonomous). Our mission is to support the holistic well-being of students, helping them develop into well-rounded individuals equipped to face life's challenges.
The transition to adulthood is filled with new experiences and challenges, often extending beyond academic pressures. Students must navigate academic adjustments—such as managing new subjects, overcoming procrastination, and balancing workloads—as well as social dynamics related to family, friends, and personal relationships. Any challenge, no matter its source, can impact overall well-being.
At the Centre, students can explore these challenges in a supportive environment with a trained professional. Whether the issue is big or small, counselling provides a safe space for self-expression, growth, and change. The focus is on helping students reflect, find solutions, and gain control over difficulties they encounter.
Faculty
Dr. Jennie Mendes – Coordinator
Dr. Jennie Mendes, Dalmia Professor Emeritus, leads the Centre. Her interests span Clinical Psychology, Indian Classical Dance, and World Cinema. With over 31 research publications, six research projects, and extensive academic contributions, Dr. Mendes is a pioneer in promoting mental health awareness. She is also involved in CUE-MH (Collaborative Undergraduate Education in Mental Health), an initiative aimed at fostering collaborative research in India.
Sukrutee Bhosale – Counsellor
Sukrutee Bhosale is a practising counsellor and art therapist. With a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and Art Therapy, she specialises in arts-based interventions to help students overcome mental health challenges. Sukrutee leads workshops, group sessions, and individual counselling with compassion and professionalism, aiming to create a safe space for personal growth.